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Melilla la Vieja

Locally known as 'El Pueblo', Melilla la Vieja is the city's historic heart, the origin of what would later become modern Melilla. It features impressive military structures, walls, caves, and buildings of unique beauty and sobriety. The area is worth visiting during the day, offering stunning views of both the sea and the nearby Moroccan territory, just a few kilometres away. Here are some of the key sights worth visiting:

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Listing from Wikivoyage: Melilla, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 28 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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Royal and Pontifical Church of the Immaculate Conception
Iglesia de la Purísima Concepción
The construction work began in 1657 and lasted for 25 years. Throughout the 18th century, various altars and altarpieces were erected, most of which are still preserved today, except for the one in the main altar, which had to be renovated and dates from 1931.
Free
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Clock House Museum
Museo Casa del Reloj
The Torre de la Vela, commonly known as the Casa del Reloj (House of the Clock), is an ancient watchtower with an attached barracks, located in the Spanish city of Melilla. It was built as a defensive structure to provide a vantage point over the surrounding area. Today, it remains one of the city's most iconic landmarks, offering spectacular views of both Melilla and the Mediterranean Sea. The tower's clock, which has become an important symbol of the city, is a notable feature of its design. The Torre de la Vela holds great historical significance and continues to attract visitors with its blend of military history and architectural beauty.
Tue-Sun 10:00-14:00 and 17:00-21:00 during spring and summer; 10:00-14:00 and 16:00-20:00 during autumn and winterFree
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Melilla Museum
Museum of Sephardic and Berber Archaeology, History and Ethnography
This museum showcases the military history of the city, highlighting its strategic importance throughout the centuries, particularly during the periods of Spanish colonial expansion and defense. The exhibits include a variety of historical artifacts, such as weapons, uniforms, maps, and documents, along with models and displays illustrating the military architecture and fortifications of Melilla. The museum is housed in a historic fort, which itself is part of the city's defensive heritage, making it a significant site for both history and architecture enthusiasts.
Open Tue to Sun from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 21:00 during spring and summer; from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00 during autumn and winter.Free
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Conventico Caves and Museum of Sacred Art
Its construction dates back to the 18th century. The Torre de la Vela was primarily used during times of danger, serving as a refuge for the local population, religious images, and as a place to hold Mass. There was even a bread oven within the tower. This multi-functional use highlights the tower's significance not just as a defensive structure, but also as a place of communal refuge and spiritual importance during times of conflict.
Open Tue to Sun from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 21:00 during spring and summer; from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 16:00 to 20:00 during autumn and winter.Free